Abstract

Fracture and fragmentation responses of laminated glass under hard body impact are modelled with the combined
finite-discrete element method (FEM-DEM). The method is essentially a discrete element method with
finite element mesh be embedded in, yielding more accurate contact forces as well as mass and energy conservation.
Failure models of glass, interlayer and glass-interlayer interface are discussed respectively and proven
to be reliable in simulating the rupture of laminated glass. Numerical examples are presented and validated with
results from different sources, and the advantage of the FEM-DEM modelling on the impact failure of laminated
glass over its parent FEM and DEM is demonstrated. The influences of Young's modulus of interlayer are further
discussed, showing that a stiff resin can effectively improve the deformation performance at little expense of
energy absorption. In general, modelling the impact failure of laminated glass using the combined finite-discrete
element method is successful.